Description

Enjoy the essence of fall with this Downeast Maine Pumpkin Bread. Moist, perfectly spiced, and easy to make, this classic treat is ideal for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy afternoon snack. With its warm flavors and tender texture, this recipe is destined to be your go-to autumn favorite.

Ingredients

For the Bread

Pumpkin puree: 1 (15-ounce) can
Large eggs: 4
Vegetable oil: 1 cup
Water: ⅔ cup
White sugar: 3 cups
All-purpose flour: 3 ½ cups
Baking soda: 2 teaspoons
Salt: 1 ½ teaspoons
Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg: 1 teaspoon
Ground cloves: ½ teaspoon
Ground ginger: ¼ teaspoon

Optional Add-Ins:

Chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries: ½ cup (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour two 9×5-inch loaf pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger until well combined.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the pumpkin puree, eggs, vegetable oil, water, and sugar until smooth.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread light and tender.
Fold in any optional add-ins, such as chocolate chips or nuts.

5. Pour Batter into Pans

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.

6. Bake

Place the pans in the oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaves comes out clean.

7. Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Notes

Storage: Wrap the cooled loaves in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store at room temperature for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze whole loaves or slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months.
Customization: Adjust the spice blend to your taste or add mix-ins like raisins or chopped pecans for added texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Bread/Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American